The role of psychological skills within physiotherapy: a narrative review of the profession and training

An exploration of physiotherapists' perceived benefits and barriers towards using psychosocial strategies in their practice

“…Furthermore, one physiotherapist stated that although psychology subjects were taught at first year undergraduate level, there is a lack of training in psychosocial strategies in a practical sense. Alexanders and Douglas () identified ambiguity in psychology content at undergraduate levels, and suggested that incorporation of psychosocial skills training as core undergraduate units would be beneficial. Although professional development for current practicing physiotherapists is paramount, evaluation of current undergraduate training in Australia is also warranted.…”

Trust, conversations and the ‘middle space’: A qualitative exploration of the experiences of physiotherapists with clients with suicidal thoughts and behaviours

“…This finding is consistent with McVey et al [ 29 ], who found that participants lacked confidence in suicide risk assessment likely due to a lack of training. Participants in the current study spoke of feeling underprepared to navigate this space, which is unsurprising given that historically, physiotherapy training has focused heavily on physical approaches, exercise rehabilitation and electrophysical agents with only minor attention to training in psychology [ 63 ]. Recent research, and the use of different models of care, such as the biopsychosocial approach in physiotherapy practice, have pushed the physiotherapy profession into new areas such as psychology and mental health [ 24 ].…”

Psychologically informed approaches to chronic low back pain: Exploring musculoskeletal physiotherapists' attitudes and beliefs

“…A wealth of research recommends using an assessment tool, such as the Subgroups for targeted treatment (STarT) Back, to stratify patients into subgroups; this supports the delivery of specific, targeted treatments and the identification of patients likely to benefit from CPPP (Hansen, Daykin, & Lamb, 2010;Hartvigsen et al, 2018;Hill et al, 2011;National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, 2016;Sowden et al, 2011;Whitehurst et al, 2015;Wilson et al, 2017). Alexanders and Douglas (2016) and Richmond et al (2018) highlighted that there have been challenges in the uptake, implementation and delivery of psychological approaches within musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice. There is a lack of clarity as to the reasons behind this, although training, competence, workplace culture and the beliefs of the physiotherapist have been suggested (Alexanders & Douglas, 2016;Houben, Gijsen, Peterson, De Jong, & Vlaeyen, 2005;Richmond et al, 2018;Sowden et al, 2011).…”

“…Alexanders and Douglas (2016) and Richmond et al (2018) highlighted that there have been challenges in the uptake, implementation and delivery of psychological approaches within musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice. There is a lack of clarity as to the reasons behind this, although training, competence, workplace culture and the beliefs of the physiotherapist have been suggested (Alexanders & Douglas, 2016;Houben, Gijsen, Peterson, De Jong, & Vlaeyen, 2005;Richmond et al, 2018;Sowden et al, 2011). Physiotherapists with elevated fear-avoidance beliefs themselves may be more likely to advise patients to limit work and physical activities, and may be less likely to adhere to best practice guidelines (Darlow et al, 2012).…”